Description

Golden Poppies of California: In Celebration of Our State Flower

by George D. Lepp

This book is the visual record of Lepp’s love affair with California’s state flower,and his annual migrations to poppy centers where the blooms paint the land with color so brilliant it seems to have spilled from the sun itself.

As a rich tribute to California’s heritage and its disappearing wild lands; the book also serves as a reminder to consider carefully what’s being lost.

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The seed exchange is back!

The workshop time slot (6.00-7.15) before the October meeting is reserved for our second seed exchange. So think seed collection. There will be a few minor differences. There has been a request to provide a picture of the plant that the seeds will become. This will help those who might not be familiar with the names choose plants they want to try. Our chapter will supply seed envelopes so we will be asking those bringing seeds to just bring a bulk collection of cleaned seeds labelled with genus and species, where and when it was collected and a picture. There is no need to spend your time separating into little envelopes.

The seed exchange is an opportunity to share seeds from native plants which are growing in your landscape. We will not sell seed. Do remember the legal issues of seed collection. It is illegal to collect seed from private property and public spaces without permission. If you happen to have access to rare plant seed DO NOT collect it. That seed should be reserved for seed banks and those with the skills to nurture the plant to maturity.

Keep in mind that a collection of plants grown from seed has more genetic diversity than plants grown from cuttings. Depending upon what your goal is that may be a positive point. But garden grown plant seed is not ideal for restoration planting. One would want the more pure genetics of a wild population to use for restoration. Plants grown from seed might not be like the parent plant.

There is an article on our website under Resources that has information on seed collection and cleaning (link). You might find it helpful. Find it under Resources > Growing Natives.

Join us on the new trail at Three Bridges Oak Preserve. This trail starts in a lovely blue oak woodland, ascends into chaparral, and ends in stands of madrone and views towards the east. It is 4 miles up and back, ascending 800 ft. Come to learn the easy to identify plant and animal species. To reach the trailhead, use a smart phone for guidance, because there are several windy streets involved. Make sure to bring water and snacks. Sturdy shoes, sunscreen, hats, and layered clothing are recommended. No RSVP needed and dogs on a leash. Contact Bill Waycott, 805-459 2103. Rain or threat of rain cancels.

Resources

About CNPS-SLO

The mission of the California Native Plant Society is to increase understanding and appreciation of California’s native plants and to conserve them and their natural habitats through education, science, advocacy, horticulture and land stewardship.
The local San Luis Obispo Chapter, CNPS-SLO, was founded in 1967 and is one of 33 chapters statewide.